Every time you access the Internet, you put your privacy at risk. Yes, Big Brother is watching. There is nothing that will make you completely anonymous, but VPNs are one way to reduce the risk. You’re not using one though, are you? Let’s explore why you should consider it:

Your online behavior is being watched by everyone from your neighbors, to inquisitive advertisers, to our own government in today’s connected world. And then there’s the onset of Big Data to worry about too.

So what can you do?

Short of leaving online completely (and not many people can do that), a VPN can offer some peace of mind.

So, What is a VPN?

A VPN, Virtual Private Network, creates an encrypted connection over a public, less secure network, i.e., the Internet. And it provides a level of security for connected systems that would not be there otherwise, particularly when it is either cost prohibitive or not feasible (such as for a travelling company representative) to use a private network.

No third-party tracking – third parties are prevented from tracking your online activities.

Identity protection – a good VPN helps to protect you from identity theft and keeps your information secure.

Global access – you can gain access to web apps that are geographically limited.

Why would I use a VPN?

Well, it’s not a magical device. A VPN service allows you to change your IP address and prevents others from eavesdropping on you (most times). But how you make use of the VPN depends on what kind of Internet user you are (and you can get a more in-depth view of user scenarios/solutions here):

Worker/student – Uses a VPN provided by their company or school to give them access to their network when they’re off-site. These folks will generally use their VPN when using public WI-Fi at places such as a coffee shop or the airport.

Traveler – Finds herself all over the world and has lost patience with the vagaries of local networks. The VPN allows her to access Internet radio, favorite TV programming, or web apps that have been restricted to a particular country.

Privacy Freak — This person makes regular use of their VPN to ensure that all of their communications are secure. They have a visceral fear of unsecured connections. (As well they should!)

Downloader – This guy frequents BitTorrent and knows a VPN is the only way to be secure.

Think of a VPN as an encrypted tunnel between your off-site computer and a secure network. Tunnels are dark, creepy and dangerous when not well-lit though.

VPN Fails

Not all VPN services give you the level of anonymity that you might require. Torrent Freak shares a list that will keep you awake at night worrying, but being aware of your VPN’s logging practices is a good place to start. You should know:

What logs, if any, does the company keep that allows them to match an IP-address and time stamp to a user.

What tools are used to prevent abuse of their service.

The response to a takedown notice or court order that requires the identification of a user.

Which file sharing services are permitted.

Where the servers are located and who has access to them.

And regardless of what your VPN offers, don’t be stupid. No VPN is going to protect you if you insist on behaving illegally. Not forever at least.

So, are you using a VPN? Why…. or more importantly, Why not? Are you comfortable with the idea of prying eyes? And are you doing anything at all to preserve your privacy?